May. 14th, 2010

May. 14th, 2010

The current NOAA trajectory maps predict the movement of oil along the Louisiana coast to the Atchafalaya Bay over the next 72 hours. These trajectories are based on weather patterns and gulf currents. This trajectory could impact some of our beloved barrier islands and thousands of more acres of wetlands. Working with BP, GRIT has identified sites that would be safe and accessible for clean-up prior to the impact of oil. Debris and trash that collects on our shorelines can potentially get covered in oil and make the clean-up of these natural areas even more complicated. We are coordinating our first beach clean-up for this Saturday, so sign up to volunteer for this event.

During the Beach Clean-Up event on May 15th, GRIT and BP will provide:· All required equipment, including gloves, trash bags, shovels, bug spray, sunscreen, etc.· Food and refreshments to all volunteers· Disposal for the trash collected· First aid kits and a first responder on site· A 30-minute safety lesson prior to the day’s activities

BP requires that all volunteers must be 21 years or older. The project site is located in Lower Jefferson Parish, approximately 2 hours from New Orleans. This is a single day event. Volunteers must provide their own transportation to and from the project site. Volunteers will be emailed details about the event and what to bring/wear, including the exact location, once they are registered.

BP and GRIT are organizing events to ensure the safety and well-being of the volunteers, as well as the wildlife and natural areas. It is required that volunteers participate in an organized event at an approved location and do not attempt to access natural areas on their own. Many areas are privately-owned, are undergoing construction activities, or have nesting wildlife, so coordination with GRIT and BP is imperative to a safe event. Please do not attempt to engage in volunteer activities on your own.

If you are not able to volunteer for this event, please consider making a financial donation to help GRIT to provide additional opportunities in the future. Clickhere to donate.